Pakistan has announced its bold vision to increase the size of its economy to $1 trillion by 2035, according to a statement by Ahsan Iqbal, the federal minister for planning, development, and special initiatives, released during a reception in Dubai on the occasion of Pakistan National Day.
Iqbal addressed the gathering, describing government’s vision of economy through its program titled as “Urban Pakistan” which aims to turn the crew nation into an economic giant. He said Pakistan’s geographical location, young population, unutilised resources and current ongoing reforms continue to make it a potential trade and innovation hub in the region. Investment in strategic sectors is going to be essential to reaching the $1 trillion target, he said.
Pakistan’s GDP stood at around $338 billion and it was driven mainly by the agriculture, construction, IT, reported World Bank data. In 2025, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), growth is to roll on at 2.6 per cent, but pick up to 3.6 percent in 2026. 
Speaking on the occasion, Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan, Dubai, stressed that the Pakistan Resolution was the birth of a steadfast, pluralistic and progressive nation. He also called on international partners to invest in various fields such as energy, IT, agriculture, minerals and tourism.
Muhammad lauded the excellent and strong relations between Pakistan and the UAE, acknowledging the wise leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He thanked the UAE for its continued support and specially mentioned the over 1.7 million Pakistani community in the UAE as a bridge between the two countries.
One of the highlights of the evening was the launch of “Sheikh Zayed: The Builder of the Nation” by Khan Zaman Saroor, a prominent figure in the Pakistani community in the UAE. The book is a tribute to the memory of the late Sheikh Zayed.
Schoolchildren, notably donning traditional Pakistani and Emirati dress, entertained the crowd by singing the national anthems of the two countries. The physical relationship between Pakistan and the UAE was thus cemented.
Pakistan in pursuit of its $1 trillion economy has been focusing on strengthening ties with U.A.E and promoting international cooperation and investment.
